Business of the House

Euan Stainbank Excerpts

Thursday 26th February 2026 Commons Chamber

[Sir Alan Campbell]

I thank the hon. Gentleman and his Backbench Business Committee for all their work. I am pleased to hear that a number of very good bids came forward for estimates day, so, to that extent, the system is working. However, as he will know, it is a question of balance. We want to make full use of the time on that day. Having three debates may be challenging in terms of time, but it certainly should ensure that we use the whole of the allotted time, which was not always the case previously. I heard his request about statements, which is a matter for the Government, and I will see what we can do.

Let me turn to service charges. As the hon. Gentleman said, we are determined to take action to address unfair and unjustified charges. We are committed to implementing the measures in the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 as soon as possible, because we are committed to ensuring that those who live in the leasehold sector are protected from abuse and poor service at the hands of unscrupulous managing agents. I will ensure that both Ofgem and Ministers hear the hon. Gentleman’s concerns and see whether anything can be done about timing, because I take his point very much.

[Euan Stainbank (Falkirk) (Lab)]

Next week, SNP-controlled Falkirk council proposes to cut school bus services from communities such as Shieldhill, Hallglen and Maddiston—bus services that get bairns from some of our most rural and deprived communities to school on time. Hundreds of working parents in Falkirk responded to the budget consultation, as they are worried sick about the impact on their bairns’ safety, wellbeing and attendance at school. Will the Leader of the House join those families and me in calling on Falkirk council to reject this cut?

[Sir Alan Campbell]

As ever, my hon. Friend raises a very important issue. We all want children across the UK to have the best opportunities and start in life, so it is vital that important transport services are available for children to access education, particularly in rural areas. As I have said many times, the Scottish Government have a record funding settlement and they should make use of it. I hope that Falkirk council has listened to my hon. Friend’s concerns.